Considering an 850 wagon to replace my totaled 240 wagon. I see a few listed with ABS light on. What does this typically indicate? Thanks, Dave

 

it's gonna either be the ABS control module or a bad speed sensor most of the time... Should be able to pull codes on it and find out that way.

 

Like Ibified said, ABS control computer have failed en-masse in 96-97 850s. There are plenty of DIY thread to fix them for about $ 2- $3 if you can solder. If you can't, you can get a remanufactured Unit for about $ 60 to $ 120. To pull codes, you need a Volvo-specific ABS code-reader. Generic OBDII scanners will not do that.

 

Henry- Thats cool, yeah I can solder. Havent bought anything yet but I'm looking. Gotta have a wagon. I'm kinda used to the old school 240, I'm a bit worried about getting something "modern". We're in snow country up here and the front wheel drive appeals to me. Ive been advised to stay away from turbos. I'm seeing 96,97s miles 150k, 1400-2000$ range. which is about what I've got to spend. Dave

 

Most of them are due on the timing belt (at around 140k miles). I used to own a 240 sedan in the 80s, and just purchased a V90 (RWD wagon, with Limited Slip Differential). My 850 Wagon got into a collision about a month ago -- in snowy/icy conditions in New England. I still drive it. Although late, I put in snow tires which make a big difference compared to the All-seasons. V90 has snow-tires on as well. It's very stable as well.

My V90 reminds me of the 240 (both RWD). V90's ride is more refined that 850. My turbo 850 has more power, although the 2.9 I-6 of the V90 is no slouch.

850s are everywhere, and there is plenty of support and parts. 97s 850s are all turbo-- some are light pressure, with no gauge on the dash, bet yet there is a turbo in there.

Turbos seem very reliable. As you may know, turbo engines are different from NA (normally aspirated, i.e. non-turbo). The internals of turbo engines have been beefed up. Lubrication is also better in Turbo engines, which results in longer life-spans, which is counter-intuitive for those not familiar. I test-drove 2 NAs, and one was especially in very good condition. There is a big difference in pull / acceleration. I don't race, but some people see it as a safety feature, and I agree. However, there are plenty of people satisfied with their NA. I think you will need to decide this for yourself.

If you DIY, if you go with 96 and 97 you also need to think about diagnostics. 94s and 95s have a on-board diagnostics module in the engine compartment that you can troubleshoot all your OBD problems with the push-button. 96s and 97s don't have that and you will need to purchase VOLVO-FCR (software and hardware / connector) for about $ 250, in order to troubleshoot problems with the ABS, SRS, etc.

On the 850, I have done a lot less than many people here, however I found it relatively easy to work on, and there is a ton of support and knowledge-base from other owners. This translates to big dollar and time savings in fixing things.

Very recently another member here RSPI put together an excellent list of things to watch for, when buying the 850. You might want to check it out, print it, and have it with you on your "tire-kicking".

 

Just a small clarification: my V90 is equipped with the ALD (Automatic Locking Differential) not LSD (Limited Slip Differential). Volvo calls the ALD "Differential Brake".

850 turbo equipped with TRACS have the same type of differential, of course a FWD version. ALD is part of the TRACS (Traction Control system). ALD is only activated for speeds 25 mph or lower. In higher speeds it works as an open differential.

 

my fuse #9 is the abs pump. There was no fuse in it so i put 1 in that space and it worked great abs and lights all shut off. The next morning it was back to all lights on and no abs checked all abs fuses and they r fine????